Why Ron Weasley is the Ultimate Hero We All Deserve to Love

How many guys can defend their friends' honor at the age of 12? Ron Weasley can. He can sacrifice himself for his best friend, face his greatest fear, stand up with a broken leg to protect his best mate from an alleged murderer, go against his own brother to support his best friend, and even defend his friend against an abusive asshole. Can you imagine seeing such strength and selflessness at such a young age? How can you not love Ron Weasley?

In contrast, I tend to fall for heroes that achieve greatness rather than simply being told they're great. Heroes who fight their demons and win are also on my list, as are the underdogs, the underestimated, and those who battle unseen forces. But perhaps the most appealing of all is the soft little ginger boy we met on the train. The one who was so disheartened at the idea of going to Hogwarts when everyone else couldn't wait to get there, feeling he couldn't compare. Yet, he took this lone orphan under his wing because he's so compassionate and full of love. This is the kind-hearted kid who protects his friends. This is the gentle boy who sometimes gets angry and says things he regrets, but who actually apologizes after he's said them. This is the character who won't take his friends' crap and calls them out without ever resorting to violence. This is the insecure child who's capable of saying 'fuck it' and leave when the plan is the worst ever conceived. This is the boy who cares so much about his friends that he spends five weeks trying to find them despite his belief that they didn't need him. And this is the character who triumphs by himself because he finally found the strength within himself to overcome the obstacles.

There's no need for a redemption arc when your favorite character never had to redeem themselves in the first place. Ron Weasley is one such character. He never had to prove his worth; he was always there for his friends and family, ready to fight for what's right. I love Ron Weasley and there's no way I'm letting the bashers do him dirty. So, let's dive deeper into the reasons why he deserves a place in every reader's heart.

Defending Friend's Honor

At an age where most boys are still discovering their place in the world, Ron Weasley proves that even a 12-year-old boy can be a true hero. His willingness to defend his friends' honor, such as in his stand against Draco Malfoy, shows a level of bravery that is often reserved for much older individuals. This act, along with his unyielding support and protection, establishes him as a character of exceptional integrity and bravery.

Sacrificing Self for Others

In the face of danger, Ron is often the one who steps forward, willing to put himself in harm's way to save others. From standing up to an alleged murderer to protecting Hermione and Harry, Ron's actions are driven by a sense of loyalty and compassion. His willingness to sacrifice his own safety for the well-being of his friends is a testament to his noble character.

Facing Greatest Feat

One of the most remarkable feats of Ron's character is his ability to face his greatest fear. His courage in the face of Voldemort's wrath when he and Hermione are abruptly captured, his willingness to stand up for what is right, and even his defense of Hermione when she is threatened by an abusive person, all demonstrate a depth of character that many find inspiring. Ron's journey is marked by these courageous moments, which show that he is not just a hero but a true leader who can command his fear and protect what he believes in.

Unwavering Loyalty and Compassion

Perhaps the most endearing aspect of Ron's character is his compassion and unwavering loyalty to his friends and family. From taking care of the orphaned Harry, to his emotional support during difficult times, Ron never fails to show empathy and understanding. His ability to say "fuck it" when the plan is terrible and still stand by his decisions is a sign of strength and independence. Ron's failures and regrets only further his character, as he always seeks redemption and growth. He learns to apologize and to listen to others, which is a beautiful testament to his journey.

Triumphant Over Obstacles

Throughout the series, Ron's character grows and evolves. He faces numerous obstacles, from familial tensions to personal insecurities, but he always finds a way to overcome them. His solo journey, such as his effort to find Harry and Hermione despite his belief that they didn't need him, highlights his inner strength. Ron's triumphs are not just external, but also internal, as he learns to trust himself and others. His victories are his own, achieved through the strength he finds within himself.

Ultimately, Ron Weasley is not just a hero; he is a character who embodies virtues that we all aspire to. His journey is a testament to the power of kindness, loyalty, and bravery. And he does it all with a soft, ginger heart.